When caring for a confused elderly patient, it is important to remember to ___________________.

When caring for a confused elderly patient, keeping the bedrails up except when you are right at the bedside is crucial for maintaining the patient's safety. Confusion can lead to disorientation and an increased risk of falls, particularly in elderly individuals who may have compromised physical stability or awareness of their surroundings. By having the bedrails up, you provide a physical barrier that can help prevent the patient from accidentally rolling out of bed or attempting to get up without assistance, which could lead to injury.

Ensuring a safe environment is a fundamental aspect of patient care, particularly for those who may not fully understand their situation or the layout of their surroundings. While other factors, such as a calm atmosphere and encouraging independence, are also important in patient care, safety through physical measures is paramount when dealing with confusion and disorientation in elderly patients.